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Not everyone who thinks about their future knows exactly what they want to do for the rest of their life. This is because not many people know which types of jobs are out in the real world. Penn State’s Division of Undergraduate Studies states, an estimated 20 to 50 percent of students enter college as ‘undecided’ and an estimated 75 percent of students change their major at least once before graduation. College is the time where we are supposed to figure out the career path we want, but is four years enough? Do we even know which type of career we could have with the major that we choose?

Research Various Career Paths

Doing research on different types of careers is the only way to know what a certain career will consist of. Think about the things you like to do and could possibly see yourself doing for a long time. Google will be your best friend. Researching is the only way for you to know careers are out there.

The Earlier the Better

This research should be done as early as possible. A good time to start thinking about what career path you wish to choose is before college. Many people enter college thinking that they will figure it out when they get there, but those four years fly by and before you know it, you’re going into your senior year undecided.

Linkedin

Joining Linkedin my freshman year in college was one way I was able to do more research on possible careers I was looking into. On this site, we are able to make connections and speak to other people who already have years of experience in our desired careers.

Education – Choosing Classes

Picking classes can be stressful especially when you have no idea which ones to take. It is important to take classes that work toward a specific degree but you should take a wide variety of classes. Broadening your class type in college is a great way to get a feel for a career path you may want to take.

Workplace Experience – Internships

After doing extensive amounts of research and you think you may know which career you wish to pursue, the best thing to do is intern. Usnews.com states, though graduate hiring is expected to trend up this year, professional experience – often gained through an internship – is becoming more and more important for prospective new hires. Internships are not only a great way to get experience in your desired field but can also lead to a possible job.

Workplace Experience – Part Time Jobs 

Part time jobs are another great way to get an understanding of what a certain career might be like. Working in an office and getting to know the day to day activities in an office will also help you get a feel for what choosing that specific career would entail.

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Olivia Russo is a senior at Rowan University. When she first entered college, like most students, she had no idea what she wanted to do career wise. Over the years, mentors have guided her along the way, advising her in and out of the classroom. Olivia shares what she learned along the way.

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